India has taken a bold step toward green freight transport by rolling out its first-ever incentive program for electric trucks, reinforcing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to sustainable mobility. Spearheaded by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, Mr. Haradanahalli Devegowda Kumaraswamy, this initiative is part of the PM E-DRIVE program aimed at slashing transport emissions and transitioning India’s logistics sector to clean energy.
Though diesel trucks account for just 3% of the nation’s total vehicles, they produce a staggering 42% of transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions. To address this imbalance, the government has targeted electric trucks in the N2 and N3 categories—ranging from 3.5 to 55 tonnes. The scheme provides generous purchase incentives, capped at approximately $11,186 per truck, directly reducing the upfront cost. Manufacturers will be reimbursed via a specialized government portal.
The Ministry plans to deploy 5,600 e-trucks across India under this scheme, setting aside $11.7 million specifically to curb pollution in Delhi, where 1,100 trucks will be allocated. Industries poised to benefit include steel, ports, cement, and logistics, sectors known for their heavy freight requirements.
Key Indian automotive giants like Volvo Eicher, Tata Motors, and Ashok Leyland are already producing electric trucks, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission for domestic manufacturing. The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has pledged to integrate 150 e-trucks into its fleet, aiming to electrify at least 15% of its vehicle operations.
To qualify for the subsidy, fleet operators must scrap their old diesel trucks. This dual approach not only promotes clean technology but also removes high-emission vehicles from Indian roads, contributing to improved air quality and modernized logistics. The scheme guarantees long-term support with battery warranties extending up to five years or 310,000 miles, and truck warranties covering 155,000 miles, ensuring robust operational reliability.
This initiative marks a milestone in India’s drive toward greener transportation, combining environmental responsibility with industrial innovation.
